WALSALL'S search for a new manager is set to stretch into next week as the board continues to assess the five names left on the short-list for the job.

A successor to Richard Money was expected to be unveiled late this week but interviews of the quintet in question are still taking place. An appointment is now likely after the weekend. Two interviews took place yesterday with others planned for today and tomorrow.

Whoever does land the job will be available to start straight away, importantly as there is a great deal of squad-building to do at Bescot.

Walsall have only three players of any significant experience contracted for next season.

Club chairman Jeff Bonser revealed today that none of the applicants on the short-list are currently under contract elsewhere.

"As a club we would not want to talk to anybody who is currently working for another club," Bonser said.

"We want to go about everything in the right way and don't want to upset other clubs.

"We are interviewing people at the moment and I am very pleased with the calibre of people in for the job.

"It has attracted some interesting names, although every time the Walsall job comes up it attracts interesting names. We are talking to people every day and we want to make sure that everything is right for both parties. And, of course, principally, to ensure we get a manager who we feel can take us into the Championship.

"That's where everyone at this club wants to be Ð and not just for a year or two but as a club which holds it own there and becomes established.

"But there is nothing imminent and I think the process will take us into next week.''